5 Reasons Why Kentucky Basketball Will Cut The Nets Down In 2014

5 Reasons Why Kentucky Will Cut The Nets Down in 2014

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When the Connecticut Huskies square off against the Kentucky Wildcats on Monday night in North Texas, critics are guaranteed to tag the young team -- affectionately called the kiddie cats -- as the favorites to cut down the nets because they are finally playing up to their potential.

But if the Wildcats can truly continue the next five trends, that potential will not even be an issue.

5. Second Chance Points

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5. Second Chance Points

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The Wildcats have ditched their early season offense of penetrate and dish for the more unorthodox penetrate and miss -- where the ability of Julius Randle, Marcus Lee and Dakari Johnson to crash the boards has turned into a majority of their points.

4. One-on-One Scoring

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4. One-on-One Scoring

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James Young and Julius Randle’s knack for going left (although opponents know that they are left handed) has complemented Kentucky's scoring when the half court machine stops.

Their one-on-one offense is a big reason why they could both be in the 2014 NBA Draft lottery .

3. The Sensational Sophomore

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3. The Sensational Sophomore

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Alex Poythress disappointed critics last season when he didn’t live up to their superstar expectations, but his hustle off of the bench has made him one of the most valuable players for the Wildcats since the Sweet 16.

Although he hasn’t hit the game winners, his timely rebounds, dunks and put backs have contributed just as much to Kentucky’s success.

2. Play Good Twin…

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2. Play Good Twin…

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Andrew Harrison came into the year as the more heralded player, and often tries to prove that he can still be the better one. But in order for the Kentucky Wildcats to cut down the nets, coach John Calipari has to convince him that he is a point guard, and not the type of shooter that his twin brother Aaron is.

1. …Better Twin

Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

1. …Better Twin

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Plain and simple. If all else fails and the game is on the line, just give the ball to Aaron Harrison and let him win it (you can ask Louisville, Michigan and Wisconsin for proof).